Save the Dates!
October 7, 2021 – Join us for Reflections training via Zoom on Oct 7th @ 7pm – email your contact information to reflections@scptamo.com. Approximately a week prior to the Zoom event, meeting information will be emailed. Hope to see you there! (allow 20-30 minutes).
November 1, 2021 – The Reflections theme search ends. For more information about how to submit an idea for an upcoming Reflections theme visit.
December 15, 2021 – Submit your top 3 entries to State at MOPTA.org, results are posted mid-March on the Council’s Facebook page. Any entries advanced and recognized by the National PTA are posted early May.
January 14th, 2022 – Submit your top 3 entries to the Council – location is currently undetermined.
February 20, 2022 – Awards celebration for Springfield Council of PTAs (Citywide) judging– location is currently undetermined.
Theme Search
Help us pick the theme idea that will spark fun and creativity during the 2022—2023 Reflections program! The student who submits the winning entry will receive $100 prize from National PTA. Past themes and duplicate submissions are not considered. This means we’re looking for the most original theme ideas.
To participate, complete this form, scan and submit to MISSOURI PTA by email to reflections@mopta.org. DEADLINE is November 1, 2021.
What is Reflections?
Reflections is an arts recognition and achievement program created by the National PTA Organization for all students where a PTA unit sponsors the program.
Although the program follows a contest format, a strong emphasis is initially placed on the interpretation, or ‘reflection’, of the chosen theme. Creativity and mastery of artistic ability are important; however, works are judged within the same division and within the appropriate developmental age.
The divisions are:
- Primary – Preschool, Kindergarten to Grade 2
- Intermediate – Grades 3-5
- Middle School – Grades 6-8
- High School – Grades 9-12
- Special Artist – All Grades
More than 10 million students have participated in Reflections since it was created in 1969, where the longevity and enthusiasm for the program are a true assessment to its appeal. The program provides an opportunity for students to express themselves and receive positive recognition for original works of art while increasing the importance of the arts in education.
The goal of the Reflection program is to encourage student participation and foster appreciation for the arts. It’s a great way for students to explore and learn about various art forms, while simultaneously challenging them to use critical thinking skills.
Students may submit an entry in any of the six artistic categories. Only original artwork created by the student is accepted.
The artistic categories are:
- Literature
- Music Composition
- Photography
- Visual Arts
- Dance Choreography
- Film Production
This year’s theme is: “I will change the world by…”
How to participate?
First register your PTA at PTA.org/Reflections
Check with your PTA President to make sure your PTA is good standing. If they are unsure, contact us at programs@scptamo.com and we check your standing.
Download the leadership guide at MOPTA.org (https://mopta.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/21-22-MO-PTA-Reflections-Local-Leaders-Guide.pdf) You will also find the extremely useful social media images including promo reels, lawn signs, post cards, and flyers.
Determine your campaign plan and budget about sharing, inviting, and calling for Reflection entries including how you intend to recognize the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd recipients and other participants. Consider making all entrants feel special by sending a congratulatory letter and awarding with certificates, ribbons, medallions, buttons, plaques, trophies, art supplies, film, music supplies, gift certificates, books, and bookmarks. ShopPTA.com has a good collection of Reflections items which include the theme.
Set the deadline for the entries to be submitted to the school office. Meanwhile, start assembling a group of impartial and qualified judges to evaluate the entries. How many judges is up to you; however, 3 to 5 people works nicely. Reach out to professionals in the community as many enjoy supporting art programs in school.
Coordinate a time and way for judges to review entries and provide them with a welcome/thank you letter, instructions, entry rules, judging rubric, and score card. Remember to conduct blind judging where the students name and contact information is not revealed.
How to promote the Reflections program?
Share and publicize the Reflection program and theme to students, parents, principal, and school staff, while encouraging their support and participation. Talk about Reflections at a PTA meeting and have entry forms and rules available as handouts. Ask to include information about it in newsletters, social media, or announcements.
Additional ideas:
- Host a Reflections Program workshop (or Family Art Night) for students to work on projects and provide supplies.
- Talk to before/after school programs to host a Reflections workshop where students are invited to create or submit entries.
- Organize ‘Art Night’ to meet local artists to help and inspire students.
- Hand out flyers during carline.
- Send flyers home in student folders.
- Display posters and lawn signs.
At any time feel welcome to reach out to the council as we are happy to help if we can. programs@scptamo.com
2021-2021 Reflections Program Resources
The deadline for the Missouri PTA Reflections program is DECEMBER 15, 2021.
2020-2021 Reflections Winners
Reflections Winners (City Level)
Reflections Winners (State Level)
Photography – Intermediate – 1st Place: Ilyann Khan, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA
Photography – Middle School – 4th Place: Sophy Wicklam-Zhou, Central HS PTSA
Photography – High School – 2nd Place: Hailey Youngblood, Central HS PTSA
Literature – Primary – 2nd Place: Rachel Brawley, Wanda Gray PTA
Literature – Middle School – 4th Place: Keren Ding, Central HS PTSA
Literature – High School – 3rd Place: Elana Hadi, Central HS PTSA
Literature – High School – 5th Place: Nina Musiyenko, Central HS PTSA
Visual Arts – Intermediate – 5th Place: Eden Mitchell, Wanda Gray PTA
Visual Arts – Middle School – 3rd Place: Grace Meyer, Central HS PTSA
Visual Arts – Middle School – 4th Place: Keren Ding, Central HS PTSA
Visual Arts – Middle School – 5th Place: Minal Khan, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA
Visual Arts – High School – 2nd Place: Madison Dimmick, Central HS PTSA
Visual Arts – High School – 3rd Place: Nina Musiyenko, Central HS PTSA
Visual Arts – High School – 4th Place: Karson Feuerbacher, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA
National PTA Reflections Winner:
ALEXANDRIA, Va., (May 1, 2021)—National PTA is pleased to announce the winners of its 2020-2021 Reflections® student art program. The awards honor creative interpretations of the theme “I Matter Because…” in the following categories: special artist, dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts. Seven students have been honored with the Outstanding Interpretation Award, and over 200 students have been recognized with Awards of Excellence and Merit.
Congratulations to our local winner – Award of Excellence: $200 Young Artist Scholarship; Silver Medal; Certificate of Excellence; Work featured in the traveling exhibition
Photography – Intermediate – Ilyann Khan, Greenwood Laboratory School PTA
“Don’t Forget Your Roots”
Each year, the National PTA Reflections program encourages students of all ages to create and submit original works of art in the medium of their choice that reflect on the annual theme. Submissions are reviewed by arts experts, and students are recognized for their artistic technique and ingenuity in bringing the theme to life. Over 300,000 students in pre-K through grade 12 from across the country and in U.S. schools overseas created original works of art as part of the 2020-2021 Reflections program.
The National PTA Reflections program is sponsored by Proud National PTA Sponsor BAND, a free group communication app used by PTAs to connect with members, plan in-person and virtual events, and increase family engagement.
“For over 50 years, the National PTA Reflections program has provided opportunities for millions of students to access the arts and gain recognition, which boosts student confidence and success in and out of the classroom,” added Nathan R. Monell, CAE, National PTA executive director. “National PTA appreciates BAND’s support of the Reflections program, helping more students access the arts and experience the important benefits that come from participating in the arts.”
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit PTA.org.
